In this paper, adaptive variable structure neural control is presented for a class of uncertain multi-input multi-output (MIMO) nonlinear time-delay systems with unknown nonlinear dead-zones and known gain signs. The unknown time-varying delay uncertainties are compensated for using appropriate Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals in the design. By utilizing the integral-type Lyapunov function and constructing approximated continuous functions, the closed-loop control system is proved to be semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded.